BY POPULAR demand the first adult social club session was held at the borough’s new windsurfing centre.

Eight enthusiastic would-be windsurfers gathered at The Official Test Centre, which is based on the left slipway at the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Sailing venue.

Inspired by the Team 15 kids club that aims to get more youngsters out on the water, centre managing director Tris Best enabled the adults, all aged from their 20s upwards, to enjoy a two-hour lesson at a discount rate.

Following an on-land demonstration by instructor Joe North, the group took to the water at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy.

Dubbed ‘Team 30’, the beginner windsurfers were blessed with light winds, blue skies and sunshine as they sailed across the calm waters of Portland Harbour and in many cases took several ‘swims.’ Echo media consultant Claire Morcom, 31, of Wyke Regis, said: “The reason I did it is because I can see people out there windsurfing from home and I’d always wanted to give it a go. If I didn’t, I’d regret it and I’m glad I did.

“It’s a lot easier than I thought it would be – I’ve just got to stay on there.

“It’s worth the money and I’d definitely recommend it.”

Hairdresser Allison Howe, 31, was praised by the instructors for picking up the sport so quickly, as she took to the equipment for the first time.

Mum-of-one Allison, of Wareham, said: “It was brilliant, just what I needed to de-stress after a day at work.

“I really enjoyed it even though I spent a lot of time in the water, I definitely want to go again.”

Instructor and OTC managing director Tris Best said: “We may have to come up with a different name than Team 30 to avoid any connotations, but the whole idea is to make windsurfing accessible to adults as well, riding off the success of Team 15.

“Windsurfing kit has evolved astonishingly well over recent years, making it easier to learn than a lot of people imagine.

“The centre building will be in place by the end of the month, and we’ll then be running regular adult taster sessions in the evenings, so come and have a go.”

The adult social club costs £15 and includes kit and instruction for two hours.

The next session is on Thursday, June 24, from 6pm to 8pm. Call Tris on 0121 288 9965.